MRI Scan Negligence and Compensation for Cauda Equina Syndrome
The MRI scan is a crucial factor in the diagnosis of cauda equina compression. Delays in arranging the scan may be regarded as negligent and may justify a claim for compensation.
Cauda equina compression and MRI scans
A patient who is suspected of developing compression of the cauda equina nerves is generally regarded as a medical emergency. It is essential that they undergo an MRI scan at the earliest possible moment to ensure a correct diagnosis of their condition.
If they are suffering compression of the nerves, any delay may increase the damage to the nerve and the loss of function. In the long run, the patient may suffer significant loss of lower body function including loss of mobility, loss of sexual function and loss of control of bladder and bowel.
It is, therefore, the duty of medical professionals to ensure that a timely MRI scan is carried out, analysed and reported.
If a referral for an emergency MRI is made to a medical facility without appropriate provision, it is essential that an arrangement is made to transfer the patient to a suitable facility as close as possible in order to minimise the delay in carrying out the scan. Not every medical facility can offer 24-hour provision. A failure to make arrangements to access alternative provision may cause the patient to suffer a life-changing outcome which may not have been the case with more timely care.
Claiming compensation
The management of cauda equina compression and the development of cauda equina syndrome is a complex process. If a patient suspects that they may have been the victim of negligent medical care, highly-experienced medical professionals and specialised experts in law are crucial to a comprehensive analysis of the patient's medical care and the impact of any negligence on their health, well-being and quality of life.
A successful compensation claim will address all the adverse consequences of loss of cauda equina function which have been caused by negligent care. This may include a wide range of problems and associated financial losses.
An individual who has lost their mobility may struggle in their own home and may either need to relocate or to have significant alterations carried out in order to be able to function safely and effectively. They may require specific equipment to support them both in the home and outside as well as possibly relying on some degree of personal care.
An individual who has lost control of bladder and bowel may struggle to work in a wide variety of forms of employment and suffer significant financial losses as a result.
Speak to a medical negligence specialist
In order to ensure that the patient achieves the best settlement which reflects the problems they experience and the financial losses they have suffered and will suffer, it is crucial to use the services of a legal specialist.
Contact Glynns Solicitors, specialists in medical negligence law, to discuss the possibility, free of charge, of making a claim for compensation.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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